The Effect of Lead on Humans and The Diseases It Causes

Abstract

Lead is a gray-colored metal found in small quantities on the Earth's surface. It exists in various parts of the environment that surrounds us and can result from human activities such as burning fuel, mining, and industrial processes. Lead is used in the production of batteries, ammunition, welding materials, metal products, pipes, and devices used for X-ray shielding. Over the years, the use of lead has significantly declined due to health concerns, particularly its application in industries like paint and ceramic production. Lead can affect the human body when inhaled or ingested. Prolonged exposure affects the nervous system in both adults and children, leading to reduced neurological function, weakness in the fingers, wrists, and ankles, high blood pressure, and anemia. Exposure to high levels of lead can cause severe kidney damage in both adults and children and may even result in death. For pregnant women, high lead exposure increases the risk of miscarriage.